text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|4 Dec 2001
|Filing date
|16 Jul 1998
|Priority date
|8 Sep 1995
|Fee status
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Jospeh Michael Christie, Albert Daniel Duree, Michael Joseph Gardner, William Lyle Wiley
|Original Assignee
|Sprint Communications Company, L. P.
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (166), Non-Patent Citations (137), Referenced by (26), Classifications (48), Legal Events (3)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
This application is a continuation of prior application Ser. No. 08/525,868, filed on Sep. 8, 1995, U.S. Pat. No. 5,926,482 and that is herein incorporated by reference into this application.
1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to telecommunications and specifically to an enhanced signal transfer point (STP) which alters the point codes in telecommunications signaling and supports User Parts in addition to providing standard STP functionality. The enhanced STP can form a portion of a telecommunications system.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Telecommunications signaling is the transfer of information within and among telecommunications networks for use by the networks. Signaling information is used to operate the telecommunications networks so these networks can transfer other non-signaling information for the network users. A few examples of signaling operations are call set-up, congestion control, and network management, although there are many signaling operations. One well known telecommunications signaling system is Signaling System #7 (SS7). At present, SS7 is the primary signaling system used by United States telecommunications providers.
As is known in the art, and as will be discussed below, STPs route SS7 signaling within the SS7 network and manage the various signaling links which comprise the SS7 network. Routing is accomplished by processing the routing label of the SS7 message by the Message Transfer Part (MTP) functionality of the signaling point. The MTP is comprised of three levels. Levels 1 and 2 facilitate the transfer of SS7 messages from one point to another over an individual signaling link. Level 3 facilitates the transfer of SS7 messages over the SS7 network beyond the requirements of individual link transmission. In other words, levels 1 and 2 are concerned with transport over individual links whereas level 3 is concerned with transport over the SS7 network in general.
An STP accomplishes its routing task at level 3 through the use of point codes which identify the various signaling points in the network. The STP level 3 will identify the destination point code in an SS7 message and select the proper signaling link for routing that message. For example, if switch A signals a switch B through an STP, the message will contain the destination point code for the signaling point in switch B (and the originating point code for switch A). The STP will accept this signal off of one signaling link, read the destination point code, and place the message on the appropriate link for switch B.
An STP can also control the signaling network through the use of management messages generated at level 3. In the above example, if there were signaling links between switch A and the STP, the STP might signal switch A with instructions to avoid particular links which were congested or had failed.
Telecommunications networks are commonly faced with the problem of re-routing user traffic among switches. Traffic may need to be re-routed from one switch to another switch, from one switch to multiple switches, from multiple switches to one switch, or from one group of switches to a different group of switches. When traffic accessing a network is directed to a particular switch, the traffic is described as being homed to the switch. Traffic being homed to particular switches may need to be re-homed to other switches.
Re-routing the user traffic encompasses changing the connections between the switches. Connections between switches may be added and deleted to create new network architectures. Due to the relationship between signaling and network architecture, any change in architecture needs to be reflected in the signaling system. A common method for doing this is to re-program the switches to signal each other in accord with the new architecture. This a complex and time consuming task. Switches contain numerous data files which must be re-programmed in accordance with the new routing scheme.
One prior art system facilitated the transition of trunks from an old switch to a new switch. The system converted the point codes in signaling messages directed to the old switch in response to a change in a trunk assignment from the old switch to the new switch. The converter was placed between the switch and the STP so that it only handled signaling on the signaling link connected to the old switch. It used a look-up table to yield the point codes. Since particular trunks would be connected to either the new switch or the old switch based on an assignment, a table could be constructed to identify the particular trunk used on a call and convert point codes based on this trunk/switch/point code assignment. The prior art suggests placing this conversion function in an STP, but it does not disclose more on this point.
Although this prior art system may be adequate for the limited scenario encompassing the transition of individual trunks from an old switch to a new switch, it does not address the problem of changing network architectures beyond this limited scenario. The prior art system is designed to serve two switches which share a single switch load and a common signaling destination. In other words, the system is limited to a situation in which signaling which has already been routed to the old switch is split between the old switch and the new switch during the transition of loads between the two switches.
As a result of this limitation, several problems are not addressed by the prior art system. Since it is based on identifying individual trunks for point code conversion, signals that cannot be associated with a specific trunk would not be able to have their point codes converted. The prior art system does not address the problem of handling management messages which are generated for the control of the signaling system. Also, the reliance on individual trunk identification does not adequately address situations in which entire switch loads are moved between switches, or when multiple switch loads are consolidated on a single switch. Because all trunks between switches are being changed over, individual trunk recognition is unnecessary.
Importantly, the prior art system does not identify the origination of the signaling message in order to select a destination for the signaling. The prior art system does screen the messages which originate from the new switch so these signals can be converted to represent the old switch as the source of the signaling. This is done in order to avoid confusion at the destination, but it does not affect the actual selection of the destination. In the prior art system, the destination is not chosen based on the origin of the message. The prior art system uses only trunk identification to choose the destination. This is detected using either the dialed number or the Circuit Identification Code (CIC).
It is also important to note that the prior art system is designed only to convert signaling that has been placed on the signaling link connected to the old switch. This means the STP has already isolated the signaling messages as directed to the old switch. Thus, the system does not see signaling directed to any other switch, and it is not equipped to process signaling that has not been directed to the old switch. As such, an STP incorporating this system would convert the point codes only after the STP has performed routing processing and designated the signaling as being directed to the old switch. Thus, the STP of the prior art system would not apply to a conversion function for incoming signals which had yet to be routed and could still be directed to any switch.
Another prior art system provides a signaling gateway between two signaling systems, for example, a gateway for the signaling systems of Europe and the United States. The signaling gateway converts point codes based on the network identification and the destination point code. The gateway does not convert point codes based on originating information, such as the signaling link or the originating point code. The gateway also converts point codes after the destination point code has been used for message routing. Also, since the gateway must interface signaling of different signaling systems, it necessarily includes more functionality and cost than a point code converter that does not have gateway functionality.
The above-referenced application discloses a signaling processor. The signaling processor receives, processes and transmits signaling. In some instances, the signaling processor will not have a point code to facilitate the routing of signaling messages. In other instances, the signaling processor may receive signaling that was actually transmitted to a switch, but needs to be processed by the signaling processor instead of the switch. The prior art does not address the signaling transfer needs of these signaling processors.
Typically, an STP routes signaling among several switches. Present systems do not provide an efficient and workable STP which can convert signaling in a way that accounts for architectural changes affecting several of the switches. At present, there is a need for an STP that can better facilitate architecture changes in a telecommunications network.
The present invention is an STP, a system, and a method that solves the problems posed by changes in architecture and the needs of signaling processors. The STP applies Message Transfer Part (MTP) functions to signaling messages that contain point codes. A first means applies the signaling data link function, a second means applies the signaling link function, and a third means applies the signaling network function. A converting means is added for converting at least some of the point codes in the signaling messages into different point codes.
The converting means can be located between the second means and the routing function of the third means. Point code conversion may be based on the point codes originally contained in the messages or on origination information, such as the particular signaling linksets on which the messages are transferred to the STP. MTP level 3 management messages are also converted. The converting means could be comprised of a table which is entered using the point codes or linkset designations and which yields the converted codes. In addition, Circuit Identification Codes (CICs) can be converted along with the point codes.
The present invention is operable to transfer integrated services user part (ISUP) messages to any user parts coupled to the STP. The user parts may include signaling processors.
A signaling system embodying the invention is comprised of multiple signaling points linked to a signal transfer point. The links can be direct or through other STPs. The signaling points generate and process signaling messages and transfer them to the STP over the links. The signaling messages contain codes that identify origination signaling points and destination signaling points for the messages. The STP is enhanced in accord with the present invention and is operable to convert destination codes for signaling messages directed to a plurality of signaling points.
A method embodying the present invention includes receiving a signaling message into the signal transfer point from an originating signaling point. The signaling message contains codes which identify the origination signaling point and the destination signaling point for the message. The STP then converts at least a portion of the codes in the message to different codes before the signaling message has been designated by the STP for a particular destination signaling point. The STP then transfers the signaling message to a signaling link based on the converted codes. The conversions can be based on the codes in the initial message and/or on a particular linkset the signaling message is received on.
In one embodiment, telecommunications traffic is re-routed among switches. However, the signaling points in the switches are not reprogrammed and continue to generate and transmit signaling to the STP according to the old architecture. The STP converts the point codes in the messages to identify the switch that actually receives the traffic after the re-route, and routes message to that switch according to the converted destination point code.
Advantageously, the conversion function is located prior to the MTP level 3 route function allowing a single integrated and flexible system. Conversions selecting a destination can be based on the origin of the signaling. Management messages are also converted to facilitate control of the signaling system.
In another embodiment, the point codes in signaling messages are converted between the point code of a signaling processor and the point code of other signaling points. This might occur if signaling is being routed to a signaling processor instead of a switch even though the signaling message identifies the destination point code of the switch. Messages from the signaling processor may need to have the originating point code converted to another point code, i.e. the switch that was to receive the initial message. In another embodiment, the signaling processor could be a user part of the STP and require that select signaling messages are routed through the signaling processor.
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, claims, and drawings where:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a signaling system.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a telecommunications network including a signaling system.
FIG. 3 is a logical diagram of SS7 functionality.
FIG. 4 is a logical diagram of a version of the invention.
FIG. 5 is a logical diagram of a version of the invention.
FIG. 6 is a logical diagram of a version of the invention.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a version of the invention.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a version of the invention.
As those skilled in the art are aware, SS7 systems are currently comprised of basic components such as, signaling points, signaling transfer points (STPs), and signaling links. Signaling points process the signaling information to facilitate network operations. Signaling links transfer this signaling information among the various signaling points. FIG. 1 is provided to illustrate this basic relationship and it shows a basic signaling system comprised of signaling points 10-15 and signaling links 20-28. Links 20-28 carry signaling used to operate the network, and the actual lines which carry telecommunications traffic are not shown.
A common example of a signaling link is a 56 k/bit data link contained in a T1 line. However, these links can take many different forms such as analog links, satellite links, and 1.5 M/bit data links. Typically, the links are grouped into multiple associations of links called linksets.
Signaling points process the signaling information transferred by the signaling links. Often, a signaling point is located within a telecommunications switch. As is known, switches typically include a central processing unit (CPU), a signaling point, and a switch matrix. The signaling point is connected to the switch CPU and provides the CPU with data so it can control the switch matrix. Switches will communicate to each other through their signaling points over the signaling links. In this way, the various switch matrices can be coordinated by the switch CPUs to establish a connection through a series of switches.
Signaling points can also be located in Service Control Points (SCPs). As those skilled in the art are aware, SCPs include databases that respond to signaling from switches. Typically, the SCP will accept a query from a switch as to how a particular call should be routed. The SCP will process the signal and respond to the switch with a signal that provides routing information.
STPs can function as a signaling point in addition to the signaling transfer function. The STP accepts multiple signaling links from numerous signaling points. The STP's primary function is routing; placing incoming signaling on the appropriate outgoing signaling link. Typically, the signaling points in switches and SCPs are linked to STPs and transmit signaling to the STPs for routing to the proper destination signaling point in another switch or SCP. STPs also perform management functions for the SS7 network.
Other types of signaling points are equally applicable to the present invention. For example, the above referenced signaling processors can function as signaling points. In addition, other signaling systems, such as C7 signaling, are equally applicable to the present invention.
FIG. 2 further illustrates the basic relationship of FIG. 1 and is an overlay of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 shows switches 30-32, STPs 40-41, signaling processor 45, and SCP 50 which each include a signaling point that is linked to signaling points in other network elements. As discussed, the signaling points in the switches are typically coupled with a switch CPU that controls the switch matrix.
The SS7 signal itself is a packet, or message, of information bits. The functionality which processes SS7 signaling messages is fundamentally divided into two parts: the Message Transfer Part (MTP), and the User Part. The function of the MTP is to provide transport for the SS7 messages within the signaling system. Those skilled in the art are familiar with functions in the User Part, such as the Integrated Service User Part (ISUP), the Telephone User Part (TUP), the Transaction Capabilities Application Part (TCAP), and the Signaling Connection Control Part (SCCP). These functions "use" the MTP to transfer signaling messages over the signaling links of the SS7 network so that the User Part may process information required by the switches such as dialed numbers, translation numbers, and circuit status.
Since STPs serve to route and manage the SS7 network, they do not require User Part functionality which pertains to information about calls and connections in the general telecommunications network. STPs are concerned with being able to route SS7 messages within the signaling network to the appropriate signaling points in switches and SCPs. The STP employs MTP processing to accomplish this function. In addition, the STP can employ signaling connection control part (SCCP) logic to facilitate routing. SCCP allows signaling message routing based on logical connections. For example, a signaling message requesting a dialed number translation can be sent to the STP itself. SCCP would provide the STP with the point code for the appropriate database that could accommodate the translation.
MTP functionality is comprised of three levels: signaling data link (level 1), signaling link (level 2), and signaling network (level 3). Level 1 represents the bi-directional signal path comprising two data channels operating together in opposite directions. Level 1 defines the physical and electrical characteristics of the signaling link. Typically, this entails 56 k/bit data link operation, however, other forms of links are equally applicable to the present invention. Level 2 operates over level 1 to provide for the transfer of signaling from point to point over a single data link. This includes delimiting the signaling messages with flags, bit stuffing, error detection through check bits, error correction through retransmission and sequence information, signal link failure detection, and signal link recovery. For example, on FIGS. 1 and 2, the first two levels might be used to provide transport over signaling link 20 at 56 k/bit from signaling point 10 in switch 30 to signaling point 11 in STP 40. The first two levels would also ensure that signaling link 20 is monitored for proper performance. Level 3 defines the transport functions that are independent of the operation of individual signaling links. For example, from switch 30 to SCP 50 on FIG. 2.
SS7 functionality is illustrated in FIG. 3 with MTP 61 and User Part 62. The separation of the MTP and the User Part is shown. The MTP handles transport of signaling messages within the signaling network and the User Part facilitates the operation of the network which carries telecommunications traffic. An example of a user part would be a signaling processor. Signaling Data Link 71 (Level 1) which handles the physical/electrical transport on individual links is coupled with Signaling Link 72 (level 2) which performs monitoring and control of these same individual links. Signaling Network 73, or level 3 is shown between the User Part (level 4) and level 2. Level 3 provides the interface between the User Part and individual link transport. Level 3 also manages the SS7 network beyond the individual link level.
FIG. 4 displays this functionality, and particularly level 3 functionality, in greater detail. The functions of Signaling Data Link 100 (level 1) and Signaling Link 200 (level 2), Signaling Network 300 (level 3), and User Part 400 (level 4) have been discussed above. Signaling Network 300 further includes Signaling Message Handling 310 which ensures that messages from User Part 400 are delivered to the proper destination primarily according to a routing label contained in the message. Signal Message Handling 310 is comprised of Discrimination 312, Routing 314, and Distribution 316.
Prior to a discussion these elements, a short description of the routing label follows. The routing label is contained in each signaling message and is used by the relevant User Part to identify the purpose of the message and is used by level 3 to process and route the message. The routing label is typically placed at the beginning of the signaling information field. This routing label contains both a Destination Point Code (DPC) and an Originating Point Code (OPC).
These point codes identify signaling points in the network—and in particular, the originating and destination signaling point for a particular message. For example, a message sent from signaling point A to signaling point B would have an OPC of A and a DPC of B. A return message would reverse the two and have an OPC of B and a DPC of A. The routing label also contains a Signaling Link Selection (SLS) field which is used to allow load sharing among links.
Standard international signaling has a 14 bit DPC, 14 bit OPC, and a 4 bit SLS. Standard U.S. signaling has a 24 bit DPC, 24 bit OPC, and a 5 or 8 bit SLS. The 24 bits of the U.S. point code are broken into three 8 bit fields that identify the signaling point, the network, and the network cluster to which the point code belongs. The 8 bit cluster member code 00000000 is reserved for STPs. It should be pointed that other signaling conventions are equally applicable to the present invention.
Referring again to FIG. 4, Discrimination 312 analyzes the DPC of a message to determine if that particular signaling point (performing the discrimination function) is the destination of the message. If it is not the destination, the message is directed to Routing 314 for transfer on the signaling network. If it is the destination, the message is directed to Distribution 316 for internal processing.
Distribution 316 analyzes the service indicator in the message to direct the message to the appropriate user of User Part 400 or to the appropriate part of Signaling Network Management 320.
Routing 314 accepts messages from Discrimination 312, User Part 400 and Signaling Network Management 320. Routing 314 determines the signaling link over which these outgoing messages are sent and delivers these messages to level 2 for transmission. Typically, the DPC is used to select a combined link set and the SLS is used to select the link within the combined link set on which to place the message. The DPC controls the actual destination of the message, but many other factors can affect route choice such as congestion and link failure. Signaling Network Management 320 provides this type of information to Routing 314.
Signaling Network Management 320 is comprised of the following functions: Signaling Link Management 322, Signaling Route Management 324, and Signaling Traffic Management 326. The primary function of these elements is to provide control of the signaling network in the case of failures and congestion.
Signaling Link Management 322 controls the status of particular links. It may use the following procedures to control the links: link activation, link deactivation, link restoration, linkset activation, and automatic allocation.
Signaling Route Management 324 distributes information about the status of the links. This information may indicate failed or congested links and includes: transfer prohibited, transfer allowed, transfer restricted, transfer controlled, signaling route set congestion test, and transfer route set test.
Signaling Traffic Management 326 is used to re-route signaling in order to respond to system conditions such as failure or congestion. Signaling can be diverted or partially diverted (inhibited) from one link to another. These procedures are: changeover, changeback, forced re-routing, controlled re-routing, MTP restart, management inhibiting, and flow control.
As those skilled in the art are aware, an STP will house the MTP functionality discussed above. In accord with the present invention, the functionality of the STP can be altered to provide advantageous capabilities to a telecommunications system.
FIG. 5 depicts the functionality of an STP that is in accord with the present invention.
Signaling Data Link 100 (level 1), Signaling Link 200 (level 2), Signaling Network 300 (level 3) and User Part 400 (level 4) are again shown. Additionally, Discrimination 312, Routing 314, Distribution 316, Signaling Network Management 320 are shown as functions of Signaling Network 300. These functions interface as discussed above with the following modifications.
Point Code Conversion 500 is added and shown between level 2 and level 3. Point Code Conversion 500 accepts the messages from Level 2 and provides messages to Discrimination 312. Point Code Conversion 500 translates the data in the signaling messages using internal tables. Typically, these tables would logically reside in the MTP software processed by the STP. The tables would be used to systematically change designated DPCs, OPCs, and CICs of the signaling messages directed to Discrimination 312.
The appropriate table could be selected based on the linksets or signaling clusters that the messages arrive on. These linksets and clusters represent the origin of the messages. The tables could also be selected or entered based on the OPC which also represents the origin of the messages. The tables could then use the OPC, DPC and/or CIC of the messages to select new data for the conversion, including a new OPC, DPC, and/or CIC. Because Routing 314 will select the outbound link based on the DPC, Point Code Conversion 500 can change the actual destination of the signaling message. The tables would be constructed to effect these desired changes.
Alternatively, only the DPC could be used for the entire conversion. One table would house DPC to DPC conversions. Additionally, at a point in the STP where processing is still linkset specific (before level 3), MTP linkset processing could place flags in the messages from designated linksets. Those messages coming from the particular linksets would access the table during subsequent processing when the flag was detected, and unflagged messages would not access the table. The table could convert combinations of OPC, DPC, and/or CIC into specified combinations of OPC, DPC, and/or CIC.
Referring again to FIG. 4, it can be shown how Discrimination 312 could be altered in accord with the present invention. As discussed, Discrimination 312 determines whether the messages are destined for the STP itself, a User Part, or another signaling point. A conversion table which is based on linkset, OPC, DPC, and/or CIC could be functionally located at this point. The table could process all signaling messages, messages not directed to the STP's DPC, or messages flagged in prior processing. The present invention thus applies to a point code conversion function located at Discrimination 312. The converted messages would typically be transferred to Distribution 316 in this case.
In one embodiment, a Digital Switch Corporation model Megahub STP is used. This STP has a particular feature for gateway screening. This feature screens incoming messages with a set of criteria defined for each linkset delivering messages. The criteria ensures that the messages are valid for that linkset. At present, this feature only screens messages and does not convert them or map point codes. In this embodiment, the Point Code Conversion 500 is located in the STP between levels 2 and 3 at the point of the gateway screening feature. Alternatively, only a flagging function could be placed at the gateway screening feature, and a conversion table could convert flagged messages during subsequent processing.
By placing the conversion tables at a point in the STP that is specific to the incoming linkset, the point code conversions can be specified for the signaling point(s) transmitting signals on the given linkset. In other words, signaling conversions can be specified individually based on the origin of the signaling. This placement also allows the level 3 functionality to process the converted signal, instead of processing a signal first, and then converting the point codes at the output. Similar advantages can be attained by flagging the messages on particular linksets and using the OPC to ascertain the origin during subsequent processing.
User Part 400 (level 4) may include a signaling processor, such as that described in parent application Ser. No. 08/238,605, entitled "Method, System, and Apparatus for Telecommunications Control", filed on May 5, 1994, or in a patent application entitled, "System for Managing Telecommunications", filed simultaneously with this application, and assigned to the same assignee. The signaling processor may process particular ISDN Services User Part (ISUP) signals. In at least one embodiment, Discrimination 312 would be configured to identify the particular ISUP messages required by the signaling processor. These criteria could be formed into a table, and the table used to identify the appropriate ISUP messages from Distribution 312 to transfer to the application processor. Like the point code conversion tables, the origin of the signaling as represented by the linkset or the OPC could be used to determine if ISUP should be transferred to the pertinent user part. The OPC, DPC, SLS, CIC and various combinations of these elements could also be used for this purpose as well. Those skilled in the art will appreciate other criteria that can be used to route messages to a signaling processor. Additionally, a flagging function could be used during linkset specific processing to trigger transfer of ISUP to a level 4 user during subsequent processing. Those skilled in the art are familiar with ISUP identification.
Another embodiment is shown on FIG. 6 which shows the same elements as FIG. 5 except for one addition. In this embodiment, additional point code conversion may be required for messages generated by Signaling Network Management 320 or User Part 400. For these embodiments, Point Code Conversion 350 is added and shown between Signaling Network Management 320 and Routing 314, as well as, between User Part 400 (level 4) and Routing 314. Point Code Conversion 350 operates through the use of tables as does Point Code Conversion 500. In this way, the point codes in management messages or from a user part can be converted. Typically, the changes would account for the architectural changes in a way similar to Point Code Conversion 500.
As discussed above, Signaling Network Management 320 is comprised of three functions: signaling link management, signaling traffic management, and signaling route management. As an example, if a signaling link fails, signaling link management will perceive this and report it to signaling traffic management which will transmit signals to other signaling points to re-route signaling over an alternate link. If this were to cause congestion on the alternate link, signaling route management would transmit signals to the other signaling points instructing them to restrict use of the congested link.
Typically, signaling link management messages will not need any point code conversion. However, signaling traffic management messages and signaling route management messages both provide other signaling points with signaling instructions for affected signaling links and points. Point codes are used to define the affected signaling links and points. These messages will need the identification point codes changed to account for new network architectures. These changes are affected by tables as discussed above for the point codes used for routing. The management messages can be specified for each signaling point receiving one of the messages by using the DPC in the routing label to enter the table. The table would be constructed to give each signaling point which receives a management message the point codes it understands in the given point code converting scenario.
Another embodiment is shown in FIG. 7 which depicts a telecommunications system including enhanced STP 600 which operates in accord with the present invention. STPs 605 and 610 are also shown along with switches 615, 620, 625, 630, 635, 640, 645, 650, 655, 660 and 665. STPs 605 and 610 are standard STPs which are known in the art. The switches are standard telecommunications switches which are known in the art.
In FIG. 7, signaling links are represented by the double lines and telecommunications connections are represented by the single lines. The switches and STPs are interconnected with signaling links 700, 705, 710, 720, 725, 730, 735, 740, 745, and 750 as shown on the drawing. These links transfer signaling among the switches and STPs as discussed above. The switches are interconnected by connections 760, 765, 770, 775 and 780 as shown on the drawing. The connections carry telecommunications traffic for users of the telecommunications system as is known in the art.
To understand this embodiment, it should be pointed out that the system architecture has been modified from the following architecture (former connections are not shown): a connection from switch 620 to switch 650 was re-routed to switch 640, a connection from switch 625 to switch 655 was re-routed to switch 645, a connection from switch 630 to switch 660 was re-routed to switch 645, and a connection from switch 635 to switch 665 was re-routed to switch 645. The connection from switch 615 to switch 650 did not change. The switches have not been re-programmed to accommodate signaling in accord with the new architecture. In addition, STPs 605 and 610 have not been enhanced in accord with the present invention.
When switch 630 attempts to connect to switch 660 (its former connection), it actually connects to switch 645. However, switch 630 would still direct signals to switch 660 when it attempts the connection. The signaling would be routed to STP 600 and would be processed in accord with present invention. The DPC in the signaling would be converted to represent switch 645 instead of switch 660. The signaling would then be routed to switch 645. When switch 645 responds to switch 630 acknowledging the connection, STP 600 will convert the OPC from switch 645 to represent switch 660. In this way, switch 630 is able to signal and make connections in accord the new architecture without being re-programmed.
When switch 620 attempts to connect to switch 650 (its former connection), it actually connects to switch 640 over connection 765. However, switch 620 will still attempt to signal switch 650. The signal would be routed over link 705 through STP 605 and over link 710 to STP 600. The DPC would be converted by STP 600 to represent switch 640 instead of switch 650. The signal would then be routed to switch 640 over link 745. When switch 615 attempts to connect to switch 650 (its former and current connection), it will signal switch 650. The signal would be routed over link 700 through STP 605 and over link 710 to STP 600. In this case, no conversion is needed. Thus, sometimes STP 600 should convert the DPC for switch 650, and sometimes it should not. The present invention allows STP 600 to discern whether or not to make the conversion.
STP 600 will identify the source of the signaling before making the conversion. This identification could be by OPC. In this way, the conversions for switch 615 would be different than the conversions for switch 620. For the OPC of switch 615, the DPC for switch 650 would not be converted. For the OPC of switch 620, the DPC for switch 650 would be converted to the DPC for switch 640.
Additionally signaling messages sent in the backward direction could undergo conversion at the STP in a similar manner. For example, messages from switch 645 to switch 630 and from switch 640 to switch 620 would have their OPC converted to represent switch 660 and switch 650 respectively. The message from switch 650 to switch 615 would not need the OPC to be converted.
Point codes can also be converted at STP 600 based on the signaling link that the message arrives on. For example, signaling from switch 650 to switch 615 does not need conversion, but signaling from switch 640 to switch 620 does need converted to account for the new architecture. STP 600 could be configured to convert the OPCs for signaling messages arriving on signaling link 745 to the OPC for switch 650. STP 600 would not convert the OPCs for signaling messages arriving on signaling link 740. As can be seen, conversion can be based on many factors, such as signaling link, OPC, DPC, CIC, SLS, and various combinations of these factors. Other factors are also contemplated by the invention.
As stated above, signaling networks use management messages to control the signaling network. An example of such messages is a transfer restricted message. If link 750 between STP 600 and switch 750 becomes congested, the signaling route management function in STP 600 would generate and transmit transfer restricted messages to alleviate congestion on link 750. In the signals, the congested link is defined by the point code for switch 645 (the message would still require a separate OPC and DPC in the routing label for its own routing). However, the other switches in the network would not recognize the point code for switch 645 because they have not been reprogrammed. As such, they would not recognize the congested link, and might continue to inadvertently use it. STP 600 would convert the point codes in the management messages which define the congested link to point codes that would be recognized and properly acted upon by the signaling points receiving the management messages.
Each signaling point to receive a transfer restricted message could get a specific conversion. This is accomplished by using the DPC in the routing label of the management message to identify the receiving signaling points and obtain the specified conversion. For example, the point code defining the congested link might be of switch 655 for the message sent to switch 625, and it might be of switch 660 for the message sent to switch 630. In this case the DPCs in the routing labels would be used to access the specified conversions for the point code defining the congested link. In some cases conversion may be not be required for certain management message destinations. For example, a transfer restricted message regarding link 740 that is sent to switch 615. Message origination recognition could be used to discern whether conversion is required.
FIG. 8 depicts another embodiment of the invention. Switch 810 is shown linked to STP 830 and switch 820 is shown linked to STP 840. Signaling processor 850 is shown coupled to STP 830, and signaling processor 860 is shown linked to STP 830 and to STP 840. If switch 820 sends a message to switch 810 through STP 840, STP 840 could convert the DPC to represent the point code for signaling processor 860. As such, the message would be routed to signaling processor 860. A message from signaling processor 860 to switch 820 could have the OPC converted by STP 840 to represent the OPC of switch 810. In this way switch 820 does not need to be re-programmed with the point code for signaling processor 860.
In addition, signaling processor 850 could function as a user part of STP 830. If switch 810 were to transmit a signal to switch 820, STP 830 could forward the signal to signaling processor 850 instead of switch 820. After processing the message, the signaling processor could transmit a message to switch 820 and STP 830 could convert the OPC to be that of switch 810. Messages from switch 820 to switch 810 could be treated in a similar fashion. In this way, signaling processor 850 can process the signaling between the switches in a way that was transparent to the switches.
There are many advantages gained from the present invention. When network architectures change, switches do not need to be re-programmed to signal each other in accord with the new architecture. This avoids a complex and time consuming task.
Because the present invention acts on signaling as enters MTP level 3 processing, multiple switches can be accommodated. Signaling directed to any switch in the network which passes through the STP can be converted. Prior systems only converted signaling after the route function of MTP level 3. The present invention allows one integrated and flexible system that acts on MTP level 3 input.
Because the present invention does not rely on individual trunk identification, it can efficiently address situations in which entire switch loads are moved between switches, or when multiple switch loads are consolidated on a single switch. In these cases, individual trunk recognition is unnecessary.
The present invention is capable of selecting destinations for signaling messages based on the origin of the messages. This allows conversions to be tailored for each source of signaling. Prior systems did not select signaling destinations which corresponded with the origin of the message, but based the selection on individual trunk identification or the destination point code.
The present invention can also accommodate the introduction of signaling processors into a network. Using the STP of the present invention, the signaling processors can avoid using point codes altogether or have a point code that is transparent to the rest of the network.
The present invention provides an efficient and operational STP which can convert signaling to accommodate architectural changes affecting several switches in a large network. The specification and figures provide embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments. Those skilled in the art can appreciate many applications of the present invention, which should be measured in accord with the following claims.
|Cited Patent
|Filing date
|Publication date
|17 Mar 1978
|6 May 1980
|International Telephone And Telegraph
|Distributed control digital switching system
|4 Feb 1980
|12 Jan 1982
|Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated
|Method of processing special service telephone calls
|21 Mar 1980
|7 Sep 1982
|Bell Telephone Laboratories, Incorporated
|Method of providing virtual private network telephone service
|3 Mar 1982
|5 Jun 1984
|Hitachi, Ltd.
|Speech packet switching method and device
|12 Dec 1983
|19 Nov 1985
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Data communication network
|3 Aug 1983
|21 Jan 1986
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Telephone interexchange carrier selection
|11 Oct 1984
|28 Jul 1987
|American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories
|Data communication network
|14 Mar 1986
|19 Jan 1988
|American Telephone And Telegraph Company At&T Bell Laboratories
|Communication system control arrangement
|21 Feb 1986
|8 Mar 1988
|San/Bar Corporation
|Voice, data or both over one telephone line in a T-1 carrier system
|12 Mar 1986
|5 Apr 1988
|American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories
|Switching system control arrangements
|16 Jul 1986
|31 May 1988
|Bell Communications Research, Inc.
|Architecture for allocating resources in a telecommunications network
|16 Apr 1987
|12 Jul 1988
|American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories
|Signal transfer arrangement
|13 Dec 1985
|9 Aug 1988
|American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories
|Digital communication network architecture for providing universal information services
|3 Aug 1987
|18 Apr 1989
|American Telephone And Telegraph Company
|Virtual local area network
|27 Apr 1988
|1 Aug 1989
|Network Access Corporation
|Apparatus and method for providing existing telephone switching equipment with the capability of using the SS7 protocol
|31 Mar 1988
|23 Jan 1990
|American Telephone And Telegraph Company, At&T Bell Laboratories
|Identification and authentication of end user systems for packet communications network services
|6 May 1988
|10 Apr 1990
|Alcatel N.V.
|Division multiplex packet switching circuit using a circular shift register
|16 Dec 1988
|15 May 1990
|Alcatel N.V.
|Method and facilities for hybrid packet switching
|10 Mar 1989
|18 Dec 1990
|Gte Laboratories Incorporated
|Predictive access-control and routing system for integrated services telecommunication networks
|2 Feb 1989
|15 Jan 1991
|Sprint International Communications Corporation
|Data packet switching
|9 Nov 1989
|5 Feb 1991
|Nippon Telegraph And Telephone Corporation
|Adaptive routing control method
|11 Aug 1989
|19 Feb 1991
|Rexair, Inc.
|Electrical safety interlock and pulse-type reset circuit for a vacuum cleaner system
|16 Apr 1990
|26 Mar 1991
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Method and apparatus for the billing of value-added communication calls
|23 Oct 1989
|21 May 1991
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Special service call routing
|28 Dec 1989
|10 Sep 1991
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Arrangement for routing packetized messages
|17 Jul 1989
|15 Oct 1991
|Nec Corporation
|Tdm demultiplexer with dedicated maintenance channels to indicate high-speed line faults to low speed circuits
|3 Jul 1990
|19 Nov 1991
|Fujitsu Limited
|System for controlling data transmission in atm switching network
|19 Sep 1990
|28 Jan 1992
|Fujitsu Limited
|Routing method and routing system for switching system having a plurality of paths
|23 Jan 1990
|4 Feb 1992
|Network Access Corporation
|Apparatus and method for providing existing 1ESS and 1AESS telephone switching equipment with the capability of using the SS7 protocol
|8 Aug 1988
|18 Feb 1992
|Bell Communications Research, Inc.
|Method for handling conversational transactions in a distributed processing environment
|9 Aug 1990
|25 Feb 1992
|Alcatel N.V.
|Switching network and switching-network module for an atm system
|21 Aug 1989
|31 Mar 1992
|Hitachi, Ltd.
|Signalling apparatus for use in an ATM switching system
|28 Sep 1990
|19 May 1992
|Stratacom, Inc.
|Method and apparatus for packet communications signaling
|17 Apr 1990
|10 Nov 1992
|Wandel & Goltermann Gmbh & Co.
|Method of and circuit arrangement for determining a cell loss and/or a cell insertion during traversal of a cell oriented transmission device by cell structured signals
|11 Apr 1991
|1 Dec 1992
|Northern Telecom Limited
|Rotating-access ATM-STM packet switch
|7 Feb 1991
|9 Feb 1993
|Fujitsu Limited
|Signaling cell switching system
|9 Oct 1990
|9 Mar 1993
|Boston Technology, Incorporated
|Integrated services platform for telephone communication system
|20 Aug 1991
|20 Apr 1993
|Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
|ATM exchange system
|5 Mar 1991
|1 Jun 1993
|Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
|Method for setting up virtual connections in switching equipment operating according to an asynchronous transfer mode
|4 Apr 1991
|8 Jun 1993
|Dsc Communications Corporation
|Interprocessor switching network
|16 Mar 1992
|27 Jul 1993
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Arrangement for regulating traffic in a high speed data network
|11 Jul 1990
|27 Jul 1993
|Codex Corporation
|Method for prioritizing, selectively discarding, and multiplexing differing traffic type fast packets
|29 Apr 1991
|3 Aug 1993
|Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
|Communication system for forming virtual, annular networks in a time-division multiplex packet switching network
|19 Mar 1991
|24 Aug 1993
|Fujitsu Limited
|Controller for distributing loads among call processors
|26 Jul 1991
|28 Sep 1993
|Nec Corporation
|Routing system capable of effectively processing routing information
|17 Apr 1991
|5 Oct 1993
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Processing interactions among telecommunications call features
|19 Aug 1991
|12 Oct 1993
|Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
|Traffic control method and traffic control system for controlling cell traffic in an asynchronous transfer mode communication network
|21 Oct 1991
|19 Oct 1993
|Fujitsu Limited
|ATM switching unit
|17 Apr 1991
|2 Nov 1993
|Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
|Broad band digital exchange
|20 Mar 1991
|2 Nov 1993
|Fujitsu Limited
|ATM communication system with optimal traffic control by changing the allocated bandwidth
|23 May 1991
|7 Dec 1993
|Nec Corporation
|Signaling message routing control using composite point code status
|21 Oct 1991
|14 Dec 1993
|Fujitsu Limited
|Virtual identifier conversion system
|22 Nov 1991
|28 Dec 1993
|Device for the transmission of synchronous information by an asynchronous network, notably an ATM network
|29 Jul 1992
|11 Jan 1994
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Video telephony dialing
|24 Jun 1991
|25 Jan 1994
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Virtual signaling network method
|17 Mar 1992
|8 Feb 1994
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Errorless line protection switching in asynchronous transer mode (ATM) communications systems
|5 Feb 1992
|22 Feb 1994
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Method for the tranmission of message associated user-to-user information
|16 Jul 1991
|1 Mar 1994
|Digital Technics, Inc.
|Modular user programmable telecommunications system with distributed processing
|18 Dec 1991
|1 Mar 1994
|Unifi Communications Corporation
|Externally controlled call processing system
|17 Mar 1993
|26 Apr 1994
|General Electric Company
|Process for making coated abrasives for grinding wheels
|6 Feb 1992
|10 May 1994
|International Business Machines Corporation
|Configurable gigabits switch adapter
|7 May 1993
|31 May 1994
|Stratacom, Inc.
|Method and apparatus for routing cell messages using delay
|14 Aug 1992
|21 Jun 1994
|Fore Systems, Inc.
|ATM cell interface and method for dispatching an ATM cell
|6 Nov 1992
|5 Jul 1994
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Apparatus for interfacing between telecommunications call signals and broadband signals
|30 Aug 1991
|5 Jul 1994
|Adtran Corporation
|Digital tandem channel unit interface for telecommunications network
|29 Jul 1992
|12 Jul 1994
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Bidirectional video telephony between cable television and switched telephone systems
|22 Oct 1992
|16 Aug 1994
|Fujitsu Limited
|VPI and VCI assignment system in ATM system
|30 Apr 1992
|6 Sep 1994
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Network-based digital bandwidth-on-demand
|6 Nov 1992
|6 Sep 1994
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Establishing telecommunications calls in a broadband network
|6 Nov 1992
|6 Sep 1994
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Establishing telecommunications call paths in broadband communication networks
|19 Feb 1993
|18 Oct 1994
|Fujitsu Limited
|Apparatus and a method for supervising and controlling ATM traffic
|27 Apr 1992
|8 Nov 1994
|Fujitsu Limited
|Information acquisition system
|6 Nov 1992
|15 Nov 1994
|At&T Bell Laboratories
|Establishing telecommunications call paths between clustered switching entities
|27 Dec 1991
|22 Nov 1994
|At&T Corp.
|Common channel signaling message intercept system
|9 Apr 1993
|13 Dec 1994
|Fujitsu Limited
|Apparatus and a method for setting a communication path
|20 Feb 1992
|20 Dec 1994
|At&T Corp.
|Method and apparatus for providing ISDN access
|21 Jul 1993
|27 Dec 1994
|Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson
|System for providing enhanced subscriber services using ISUP call-setup protocol
|27 Aug 1993
|24 Jan 1995
|At&T Corp.
|Multimedia call configuration system
|9 Oct 1992
|24 Jan 1995
|At&T Corp.
|Telecommunications system SS7 signaling interface with signal transfer capability
|29 Jun 1993
|21 Feb 1995
|Bell Communications Research, Inc.
|Broadband intelligent telecommunications network and method employing a resource system to support network services
|18 Aug 1992
|28 Feb 1995
|Method for the routing of a packet of data in a digital transmission network
|24 Aug 1993
|28 Feb 1995
|Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
|Method and circuit arrangement for the transmission of message cells within an ATM network
|22 Jul 1994
|9 May 1995
|Motorola, Inc.
|Method and data structure for performing address compression in an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) system
|17 Dec 1992
|23 May 1995
|Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
|Common channel signal extraction/insertion device
|8 Feb 1994
|30 May 1995
|Sprint International Communications Corp.
|Connection establishment in a flat distributed packet switch architecture
|5 May 1993
|30 May 1995
|Synoptics Communications, Inc.
|Method and apparatus for communications from a non-ATM communication medium to an ATM communication medium
|22 Feb 1993
|30 May 1995
|Nec Corporation
|Signaling network having common signaling node for protocol conversion
|20 Dec 1993
|6 Jun 1995
|At&T Corp.
|ATM networks for narrow band communications
|7 Dec 1993
|13 Jun 1995
|Bell Communications Research, Inc.
|System and method for providing advanced intelligent network services
|20 Dec 1993
|20 Jun 1995
|At&T Corp.
|ATM distribution networks for narrow band communications
|20 Dec 1993
|27 Jun 1995
|At&T Corp.
|Intra-switch communications in narrow band ATM networks
|3 Jan 1994
|27 Jun 1995
|At&T Corp.
|STM-to-ATM converters
|31 Aug 1994
|18 Jul 1995
|At&T Corp.
|Distributed processing architechture for control of broadband and narrowband communications networks
|15 Apr 1993
|18 Jul 1995
|Rockwell International Corporation
|Functionally programmable PCM data analyzer and transmitter for use in telecommunication equipment
|12 Oct 1993
|8 Aug 1995
|At&T Corp.
|Service circuit allocation in large networks
|28 Jul 1994
|8 Aug 1995
|At&T Corp.
|Arrangement for sharing a telephone office code
|14 Sep 1993
|22 Aug 1995
|At&T Corp.
|Telephone information service system using digital and out-of-band signaling
|28 Dec 1993
|29 Aug 1995
|Electronics And Telecommunications Research Institute
|ATM multiplexing system
|20 Dec 1993
|19 Sep 1995
|At&T Corp.
|Access switches for large ATM networks
|6 Sep 1994
|26 Sep 1995
|Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
|Method of controlling communication network incorporating virtual channels exchange nodes and virtual paths exchange nodes
|23 Nov 1993
|26 Sep 1995
|At&T Corp.
|Arrangement for sharing a telephone office code
|21 Dec 1993
|10 Oct 1995
|At&T Ipm Corp.
|Delay-less signal processing arrangement for use in an ATM network
|28 Jul 1993
|24 Oct 1995
|Alcatel N.V.
|Telecommunication network with separate call control and connection control
|22 Feb 1994
|31 Oct 1995
|At&T Ipm Corp.
|Bandwidth allocation, transmission scheduling, and congestion avoidance in broadband asynchronous transfer mode networks
|27 May 1994
|31 Oct 1995
|Nec Corporation
|Fast connection setup interfaces using pre-assigned virtual channel identifiers
|23 Jun 1993
|5 Dec 1995
|At&T Corp.
|Telecommunications network architecture and system
|9 Dec 1993
|5 Dec 1995
|At&T Corp.
|Signaling system for broadband communications networks
|6 Apr 1994
|19 Dec 1995
|Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
|Method for accessing address features of communication subscribers when sending data packets
|17 Jun 1994
|26 Dec 1995
|Fore Systems, Inc.
|ATM cell interface and method for dispatching an ATM cell
|8 Jul 1994
|26 Dec 1995
|Fujitsu Limited
|Logical channel setting system for ATM network
|1 Oct 1993
|26 Dec 1995
|U S West Advanced Technologies, Inc.
|Method and system for automatically accessing and invoking switch-based services in an advanced intelligent network
|21 Dec 1994
|9 Jan 1996
|At&T Corp.
|Terminal adapter for interfacing an ATM network with a STM network
|28 Jan 1994
|16 Jan 1996
|Cabletron Systems, Inc.
|Network having secure fast packet switching and guaranteed quality of service
|12 Oct 1993
|27 Feb 1996
|Dsc Communications Corporation
|Distributed telecommunications switching system
|28 Jan 1993
|12 Mar 1996
|Bellsouth Corporation
|AIN non-call associated signalling for service nodes and service control points in a telephone system
|20 Oct 1993
|2 Apr 1996
|Fujitsu Limited
|Broadband ISDN remote multiplexer
|20 May 1994
|9 Apr 1996
|Compression Labs, Inc.
|Method for configuring a statistical multiplexer to dynamically allocate communication channel bandwidth
|25 Jun 1993
|16 Apr 1996
|At&T Corp.
|Communications signaling protocols
|22 Mar 1994
|16 Apr 1996
|Cabletron Systems, Inc.
|Distributed autonomous object architectures for network layer routing
|31 Jan 1994
|30 Apr 1996
|Fujitsu Limited
|Cell multiplexing apparatus in ATM network
|13 Oct 1992
|21 May 1996
|Synoptics Communications, Inc.
|Multiplexing of communications services on a virtual service path in an ATM network or the like
|5 Oct 1994
|28 May 1996
|Cabletron Systems, Inc.
|Method for determining a best path between two nodes
|28 Jan 1994
|28 May 1996
|Cabletron Systems, Inc.
|Distributed chassis agent for distributed network management
|26 Oct 1994
|11 Jun 1996
|Northern Telecom Limited
|Dynamically controlled routing using virtual nodes
|27 Jun 1994
|2 Jul 1996
|Us West Technologies, Inc.
|Method and system for processing calls wherein the display of calling party ID information has been inhibited
|26 Jan 1995
|23 Jul 1996
|Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
|Redundancy circuit device
|24 Feb 1995
|23 Jul 1996
|At&T Corp.
|Network call routing controlled by a management node
|28 Oct 1994
|23 Jul 1996
|Mitel Corporation
|Method of telephone signalling via data link
|28 May 1993
|23 Jul 1996
|Bell Communications Research, Inc.
|Intelligent broadband communication system and method employing fast-packet switches
|31 Jan 1995
|30 Jul 1996
|Fore Systems, Inc.
|Method and apparatus for manipulating an ATM cell
|4 Oct 1993
|30 Jul 1996
|Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
|ATM cell assembly and disassembly device with enhanced data handling flexibility
|28 Sep 1995
|6 Aug 1996
|Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
|Method for setting up virtual connections in packet switching networks
|28 Mar 1995
|6 Aug 1996
|Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc.
|ATM packet demultiplexer for use in full service network having distributed architecture
|23 Jul 1993
|13 Aug 1996
|Nts Communications, Inc.
|Signal intercept system and method
|7 Dec 1994
|20 Aug 1996
|Pmc-Sierra, Inc.
|Method and aparatus for recovering a variable bit rate service clock
|4 Oct 1994
|27 Aug 1996
|International Business Machines Corporation
|Method of transferring structured data of constant bit rate traffic in an ATM network
|16 Feb 1995
|27 Aug 1996
|Clarke; David A.
|Communications signalling network apparatus
|9 Dec 1993
|8 Oct 1996
|Method and system for delivering a communication service
|12 Oct 1994
|15 Oct 1996
|Steinbrecher Corporation
|Communication system
|21 Dec 1994
|22 Oct 1996
|Lucent Technologies Inc.
|ATM network architecture employing an out-of-band signaling network
|24 Mar 1995
|29 Oct 1996
|Hitachi, Ltd.
|Cell multiplexer having cell delineation function
|7 Jun 1995
|19 Nov 1996
|Samsung Electronics, Inc.
|System and method of signal transmission within a plesiochronous digital hierarchy unit using ATM adaptation layers
|8 Sep 1994
|26 Nov 1996
|Gpt Limited
|Telecommunications switching
|6 Sep 1995
|17 Dec 1996
|Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc.
|Intelligent signal transfer point (ISTP)
|14 Aug 1995
|24 Dec 1996
|Nec Corporation
|D channel packet communication system and a method of D channel packet communication
|5 Oct 1995
|7 Jan 1997
|Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc.
|Video and TELCO network control functionality
|25 Aug 1993
|4 Feb 1997
|Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
|Call processing system for controlling connections in a communications system
|23 Sep 1993
|4 Feb 1997
|Bell Communications Research, Inc.
|Broadband intelligent telecommunications network and method providing enhanced capabilities for customer premises equipment
|31 Jan 1995
|6 May 1997
|Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc.
|VPI/VCI administration
|31 Oct 1995
|13 May 1997
|Northern Telecom Limited
|Call routing in an ATM switching network
|4 Apr 1995
|3 Jun 1997
|Bell Communications Research, Inc.
|System and method for customer premises broadband interface with on-hook alerting
|2 Aug 1995
|3 Jun 1997
|Agrawal; Jagannath P.
|Asynchronous transfer mode packet switch
|1 May 1995
|17 Jun 1997
|Mci Corporation
|System and method of validating special service calls having different signaling protocols
|12 Sep 1995
|26 Aug 1997
|Trunk-conditioning for reconfigurable T1 access to nodal services
|28 Aug 1996
|9 Sep 1997
|Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
|Method for controlling components of a communication system
|7 Nov 1995
|30 Sep 1997
|Nec Corporation
|Communication network comprising transit switches without asynchronous transfer mode switching capability
|6 Jun 1995
|21 Oct 1997
|Bell Communications Research, Inc.
|Broadband telecommunications network and method of having operations systems support
|22 Nov 1995
|30 Dec 1997
|Christie; Joseph Michael
|ATM transport system
|28 Jul 1995
|13 Jan 1998
|Bell Atlantic Network Services, Inc.
|Dynamic STP routing in response to triggering
|29 Feb 1996
|20 Jan 1998
|Lucent Technologies Inc.
|Merging the functions of switching and cross connect in telecommunications networks
|19 Jan 1996
|17 Feb 1998
|Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
|Method and arrangement for fast through-connect of virtual connections in ATM communications systems
|5 Jun 1996
|12 May 1998
|Cignal Global Communications, Inc.
|System and method for establishing a call telecommunications path
|7 Dec 1995
|20 Oct 1998
|Sprint Communications Co.L.P.
|Method, system and apparatus for telecommunications control
|8 Sep 1995
|20 Jul 1999
|Sprint Communications Co. L.P.
|Telecommunications apparatus, system, and method with an enhanced signal transfer point
|29 Feb 1996
|17 Aug 1999
|Lucent Technologies Inc.
|Control of telecommunications networks
|8 Sep 1995
|23 Nov 1999
|Sprint Communications Co. L.P.
|Broadband telecommunications system
|Amin-Salehi, Bahman, "Third Party Call Setup for a Video-on Demand Connection Establishment," ATM-Forum/95-0022, ATM Forum Technical Committee, (Feb. 5-8, 1995).
|Andrews, F., "Switching in a Competitive Market," IEEE Communications Magazine, (Jan. 1991).
|Atoui, M., "Virtual Private Network Call Processing in the Intelligent Network," International Computer on Communications, pp. 561-565, (1992).
|Batten, A., "Personal Communications Services and the Intelligent Network," British Telecommunications Engineering, (Aug. 1990).
|Beckman, Richard T. and Matthews, Joseph R., "Proposal for a Physical Architecture Based on the Harmonized Functional Architecture," Committee T1 Contribution T1S1.5/95-027, Bellcore, ( Feb. 20, 1995).
|Bosco, P., et al., "A Laboratory for AIN Service Design and Validation," International Conference on Communications, pp. 566-571, (Jun. 14, 1992).
|Caves, Keith, "Proposed Modifications to the Baseline Text (95-0446R2) of the 'VTOA—ATM Trunking for Narrowband Services' Specification," ATM Forum/95-1134, ATM Forum Technical Committee, (Oct. 2-6, 1995).
|Chiang, Chin, "Proposed Changes to Proxy Signaling Capability," ATM Forum/95-0046, ATM Forum: Signaling Working Group, (Feb. 6-10, 1995).
|Choi, Don, "Requirements for ATM Trunking," ATM-Forum/95-1401, ATM Forum Technical Committee, (Oct. 2-6, 1995).
|Cite No. 45, Client 1098, U.S. application No. 08/525,050, filing Date: Sep. 8, 1995, Title System for Managing Telecommunications.
|Cite No. 46, Client 1057m, U.S. application No. 09/082,344, filing date: May 20, 1998, Title Method, System and Apparatus for Telecommunications Control.
|Cite No. 47, Client 1070b, U.S. application No. 09/116,966, filing date: Jul. 16, 1998, Title Telecommunications Apparatus, System, and Method with an Enhanced Signal Transfer Point.
|Cite No. 48, Client 1116a, filing date: Feb. 4, 2000, Title Broadband Telecommunication System.
|Cite No. 49, Client 1057j1, filing date: Feb. 7, 2000, Title Method, System and Apparatus for Telecommunications Control.
|Cite No. 50, Client 1111a, filing date: Feb. 4, 2000, Title Broadband Telecommunications System.
|Cooper, C., et al., "Toward a Broadband Congestion Control Strategy," IEEE Network, The Magazine of Computer Communications, (May 1990).
|Duault, Maurice, "Proposal for ATM Trunking Options," ATM-Forum/95-1230, ATM Forum Technical Committee, (Oct.2-6, 1995).
|Duault, Maurice, et al., "Baseline Text for Voice and Telephony Over ATM—ATM Trunking for Narrowband Services," ATM-Forum/95-0446R3, ATM Forum Technical Committee, (Oct. 2-6, 1995).
|Faynberg, I., et al., "The Support of Network Interworking and Distributed Context Switching in the IN Service Data Function Model," 2nd Colloque International, ICIN 92, pp. 11-16, (Mar. 1992).
|Fujioka, M., et al., "Universal Service Creation and Provision Environment for Intelligent Network," IEEE Communications Magazine, (Jan. 1991).
|Fukuzawa, M., et al., "Intelligent Network Call Model for Broadband ISDN," Fujitsu Laboratories, Ltd. (Japan), pp. 30.6.1-30.6.5.
|Garrahan, J.J., et al., "Intelligent Network Overview," IEEE Communications Magazine, pp. 30-36, (Mar. 1993).
|Homa, J., et al., "Intelligent Network Requirements for Personal Communications Services," IEEE Conference Magazine, pp. 70-76, (Feb. 1992).
|Johnson, M.A., et al., "New Service Testing Functions for Advanced Intelligent Networks," IEEE 1992 Network Operations and Management Symposium, pp. 709-720, (Apr. 6, 1992).
|Kumar, Sanjay, "Legacy Voice Service at a Native ATM Terminal," ATM-Forum/95-0917R1, ATM Forum Technical Committee, (Oct. 2-6, 1995).
|McDysan, David E. and Spohn, Darren L., "ATM Theory and Application," ATM Layer VPI/VCI Level Addressing, p. 256: 9.3.1, (1994).
|Miller, P., "Intelligent Network/2: A flexible framework for exchange services," Bell Communications Research Exchange, vol. 3 (No. 3), (May/Jun. 1987).
|Minoli, Daniel and Dobrowski, George, "Principles of Signaling for Cell Frame Relay," DVI Comm., Inc. / Stevens Institute of Technology / Bell Comm. Research (Bellcore), pp. 1-2, 5-6 and 229, (1994).
|Minzer, Steven, "A Signaling Protocol for Complex Multimedia Services," IEEE Journal on Selected Areas in Communications (ISSN 0733-8716), vol. 9 (No. 9), pp. 1383-1394, (Dec. 1991).
|N/A, "A Technical Report on Speech Packetization," Document T1a1/94—Prepared by T1A1.7, Working Group on Specialized Signal Processing.
|N/A, "Annex E of Recommendation Q.93B," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Annex J of Q.2931," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Dec. 1993).
|N/A, "AnnexesB, C, D, F, H and I of Q.2931," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "ANSI-TI.111-1992, Signaling System No. 7 (SS7)—Message Transfer Part (MTP)," American National Standard for Telecommunications.
|N/A, "ANSI-TI.112-1992, Signaling System No. 7 (SS7)—Signaling Connection Control Part (SCCP)," American Journal Standard for Telecommunications.
|N/A, "ANSI-TI.113-1992, Signaling System No. 7 (SS7)—Integrated Services digital Network (ISDN) User Part," American National Standard for Telecommunications.
|N/A, "ANSI-TI.113-1995, Signaling System No. 7 (SS7)—Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) User Part," American National Standard for Telecommunications.
|N/A, "ANSI-TI.113a-1993, Signaling System No. 7 (SS7)—Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) User Part (NxDSO) Multi-rate Connection)," American Journal Standard for Telecommunications.
|N/A, "Appendix 1/Q.2931: Guidelines for the Use of Instruction Indicators," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "ATM at a Glance," Transmission Technologies Access Guide, pp. 40-42, (1993).
|N/A, "Chapter 6 of Recommendation Q.93B," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Circuit Emulation Service Interoperability Specification Version 2.0 (Baseline Draft), 95-1504," The ATM Forum Technical Committee, (Dec. 1995).
|N/A, "Clauses 7 and 8 of Q.2931," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Dec. 1993).
|N/A, "Clean final draft text for B-ISUP formats and codes (Q.2763) in ASN.1," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Draft Broadband / Narrowband NNI interworking recommendation," ITU—Telecommunication Standarized Sector, Study Group 11, (Dec. 1993).
|N/A, "Draft I.732," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 15, (Nov. 13-24, 1995).
|N/A, "Draft Recommendation Q.2650," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Draft Recommendation Q.2761," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Draft Recommendation Q.2762," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Draft Revised Recommendation I.580," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 13, (Jul. 10-21, 1995).
|N/A, "Draft Text for Q.2931 (CH. 1,2 and 3)," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Dec. 1993).
|N/A, "Draft text for Q.2931: Appendix II (Information Items Required for Connection Establishment and Routing in B-ISDN)," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11.
|N/A, "Editorial Modifications for Draft New ITU-T Recommendation I.731," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 15, (Nov. 13-24, 1995).
|N/A, "Final B-ISUP SDLs," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Final Draft Text for Broadband Capability Set 2 Signaling Requirements, Attachment "D" Special Drafting Meeting," ITU-T Telecommunications Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, pp. 1-127, (Sep. 13-22, 1993).
|N/A, "General Recommendations on Telephone Switching and Signalling—Intelligent Network / Distributed Functional Plane for Intelligent Network CS-1," ITU-T Recommendation Q.1214.
|N/A, "I.751 Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) Management View of the Network Element View," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 15, (Nov. 13-24, 1995).
|N/A, "IN/B-ISDN Signalling Three Ways of Integration," ITU—Telecommunications Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Interworking B-ISUP and Q.93B for DDI, MSN, TP and SUB," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov.29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Network Signaling," Telephony, TCX12004, University of Excellence, pp. 5.8-5.17, (Oct. 21, 1991).
|N/A, "Q.2931 Overview," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Q.2931, Clause 4—Information Elements," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Rec. Q.2931, Annex G—Status Monitoring of SPCs," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Revised Draft of Q.2650 (DSS2/B-ISUP Interworking Recommendation)," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Revised Draft of Q.2650 (DSS2/B-ISUP Interworking Recommendation)," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec.17, 1993).
|N/A, "Revised Q.2931 Network Side SDL Diagrams," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Revised Q.2931 User Side SDL Diagrams," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Revision of Recommendation of Q.850," ITU—T SG 11 WP 2, (Dec. 2-15, 1993).
|N/A, "Section 5 of Q.93B," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, "Updated draft of Q.2764 (BQ.764)," ITU—Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Study Group 11, (Nov. 29-Dec. 17, 1993).
|N/A, Buhrke, R.E., "Proposed Unified Functional Model," T1S1.5/95-036, Committee T1 Contribution, (Feb. 1995).
|Ohta, S., et al., "A Dynamically Controllable ATM Transport Network Based on the Virtual Path Concept" Communications for the Information Age, Globecom '88, Conference Record, pp. 1272-1276, (Nov. 28-Dec. 1, 1988).
|Okutani, Takenori, et al., "VTOA: Reference Configuration-ATM Trunking for Narrowband Services," ATM-Forum/95-1364, ATM Forum Technical Committee, (Oct. 2-6. 1995).
|Paglialunga, A., "ISCP Baseline Document (VER 3.1)," ITU Telecommunication Standardization Sector, Centre Studi E Laboratori Telecommunicazoni S.p.A., (1993).
|Pinkham, G., et al., "The Ericsson Approach to Intelligent Networks," IEEE Global Telecommunications Conference & Exhibition, Session 10, paragraph 4, pp. 320-324, (1988).
|Russo, E.G., et al., "Intelligent Network Platforms in the U.S.," AT&T Technical Journal, pp. 26-43, (1991).
|Schink, Helmut, et al., "CES as a Flexible Trunking Method," ATM-Forum/95-1157, ATM Forum Technical Committee, (Oct. 2-6, 1995).
|Sprague, David, "MTP Level-3 Gateway STP Release 3.2.0," TEKELEC, pp. 1-48, (Aug. 4, 1995).
|Spring Docket No. 1057, U.S. application No. 08/568,551, filed date Dec. 7, 1995.
|Spring Docket No. 1057b, U.S. application No. 09/082,165, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057c, U.S. application No. 09/082,040, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057d, U.S. application No. 09/082,045, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057e, U.S. application No. 09/082,048, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057f, U.S. application No. 09/082,049, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057g, U.S. application No. 09/082,393, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057h, U.S. application No. 09/081,166, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057i, U.S. application No. 09/081,900, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057j, U.S. application No. 09/081,891, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057k, U.S. application No. 09/082,181, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057l, U.S. application No. 09/082,182, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057m, U.S. application No. 09/082,344, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1057n, U.S. application No. 09/082,180, filed date May 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1070, U.S. application No. 08/525,868, filed date Sep. 8, 1995.
|Spring Docket No. 1070b, U.S. application No. 09/116,966, filed date Jul. 16, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1090, U.S. application No. 08/525,897, filed date Sep. 8, 1995.
|Spring Docket No. 1090, U.S. application No. 08/525,897, filed Sep. 8, 1995.
|Spring Docket No. 1098, U.S. application No. 08/525,050, filed date Sep. 8, 1995.
|Spring Docket No. 1098, U.S. application No. 08/525,050, filed Sep. 8, 1995.
|Spring Docket No. 1102a, U.S. application No. 08/933,297, filed date Sep. 19, 1997.
|Spring Docket No. 1102a, U.S. application No. 08/933,297, filed Sep. 19, 1997.
|Spring Docket No. 1105, U.S application No. 08/855,621, filed May 13, 1997.
|Spring Docket No. 1105, U.S. application No. 08/855,621, filed May 13, 1997.
|Spring Docket No. 1110, U.S. application No. 08/594,661, filed Feb. 2, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1111, U.S. application No. 08/594,660, filed Feb. 2, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1112, U.S. application No. 08/594,662, filed Feb. 2, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1113, U.S. application No. 08/594,662, filed Feb. 2, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1115, U.S. application No. 08/754,847, filed Nov. 22, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1115. U.S. application No. 08/754,847, filed Nov. 22, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1116, U.S. application No. 08/754,849, filed Nov. 22, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1117, U.S. application No. 08/755,268, filed Nov. 22, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1119, U.S. application No. 08/755,438, filed Nov. 22, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1121, U.S. application No. 08/653,852, filed May 28, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1121a, U.S. application No. 09/118,604, filed Jul. 17, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1122, U.S. application No. 08/754,846, filed Nov. 22, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1122a, U.S. application No. 09/080,393, filed May 18, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1123, U.S. application No. 08/755,523, filed Nov. 22, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1124, U.S. application No. 08/853,843, filed May 9, 1997.
|Spring Docket No. 1128, U.S. application No. 08/754,354, filed Nov. 22, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1148, U.S. application No. 08/754,349, filed Nov. 22, 1996.
|Spring Docket No. 1151, U.S. application No. 08/854,194, filed May 9, 1997.
|Spring Docket No. 1162, U.S. application No. 08/921,876, filed Sep. 2, 1997.
|Spring Docket No. 1164, U.S. application No. 09/026,872, filed Feb. 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1165, U.S. application No. 08/840,317, filed Apr. 16, 1997.
|Spring Docket No. 1168, U.S. application No. 09/027,416, filed Feb. 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1171, U.S. application No. 08/922,196, filed Sep. 2, 1997.
|Spring Docket No. 1172, U.S. application No. 08/923,762, filed Sep. 2, 1997.
|Spring Docket No. 1186, U.S. application No. 09/026,906, filed Feb. 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1187, U.S. application No. 09/027,008, filed Feb. 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1188, U.S. application No. 09/027,022, filed Feb. 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1189, U.S. application No. 09/026,766, filed Feb. 20, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1224, U.S. application No. 0/058,642, filed Apr. 10, 1998.
|Spring Docket No. 1224, U.S. application No. 09/058,642, filed Apr. 10, 1998.
|Stodola, Kevin, "Circuit Emulation Services Version 2 Baseline," ATM-Forum/95-1504, ATM Forum Technical Committee, (Dec. 11-15, 1995).
|Van den Broek, W., et al., "Race 2066-Functional models of UMTS and integration into the future networks," Electronics & Communications Engineering Journal, pp. 165-172, (Jun. 1993).
|Woodworth, Clark B., et al., "A Flexible Broadband Packet Switch for a Multimedia Integrated Network," International Conference on Communications, Denver, ICC-91, pp. 3.2.1-3.2.8, (Jun. 1991).
|Yeh, S.Y., et al., "The Evolving Intelligent Network Architecture," IEEE Conference on Computer and Communication Systems, pp. 835-839, (1990).
|Yoshikai, N., et al., "Report of the Meeting of SWP 13/1-4 (Draft Recommendation I.580)," ITU-T Telecommunications Standardization Sector, Study Group 13, pp. 1-51, (Mar. 7-18, 1994).
|Citing Patent
|Filing date
|Publication date
|4 Sep 2001
|10 Jun 2003
|Sprint Communications Company, L.P.
|Telecommunications apparatus, system, and method with an enhanced signal transfer point
|28 Sep 2001
|12 Aug 2003
|Methods and systems for collapsing signal transfer point (STP) infrastructure in a signaling network
|31 Aug 1999
|26 Oct 2004
|Fujitsu Limited
|Connection setting method in ATM network
|15 Mar 2001
|25 Apr 2006
|Lg Electronics Inc.
|Method of processing congestion conditions of MTP user part in SS7 network
|16 Jan 2003
|8 Aug 2006
|Methods and systems for routing signalong messages to the same destination over different routes using message origination information associated with non-adjacent signaling nodes
|28 Apr 2003
|31 Oct 2006
|Lg-Nortel Co., Ltd.
|Method and apparatus for managing signaling links in a signaling link set
|8 Aug 2000
|26 Dec 2006
|Methods and systems for ticket voucher flow control in response to signaling link failure
|26 Mar 2003
|21 Aug 2007
|Methods and systems for global title translation using message origination information
|28 May 2003
|13 May 2008
|Methods and systems for default routing in a signaling network
|16 May 2006
|1 Jul 2008
|Sprint Communications Company L.P.
|System for managing telecommunications
|8 Apr 2003
|30 Dec 2008
|Sprint Communications Company L.P.
|Telecommunications apparatus, system, and method with an enhanced signal transfer point
|8 Mar 2002
|25 Aug 2009
|Methods and systems for providing duplicate point code support in a signaling message routing node
|12 Sep 2005
|12 Jan 2010
|Sprint Communications Company L.P.
|System and method for caching called number information
|6 Feb 2004
|6 Apr 2010
|Sprint Communications Company L.P.
|System and method for providing a graphical user interface to, for building, and/or for monitoring a telecommunication network
|28 Jun 2006
|15 Jun 2010
|Methods, systems, and computer program products for using signaling system 7 (SS7) subsystem numbers to route messages to session initiation protocol (SIP) nodes
|29 Jul 2005
|20 Jul 2010
|Methods, systems, and computer program products for triggering SIP nodes to include SS7 routing information in response messages including information requested by SS7 nodes
|31 Aug 2005
|18 Oct 2011
|Methods, systems, and computer program products for selecting a global title translation mode based on an originator of a signaling message and performing global title translation according to the selected mode
|24 Feb 2005
|15 Nov 2011
|Sprint Communications Company L.P.
|System and method for controlling a call processing system
|15 Mar 2001
|25 Oct 2001
|Lg Electronics Inc.
|Method of processing congestion conditions of MTP user part in SS7 network
|16 Oct 2003
|29 Apr 2004
|Sprint Communications Company, L.P.
|Broadband telecommunications system
|9 Oct 2003
|6 May 2004
|Sprint Communications Company, L.P.
|Broadband telecommunications system interface
|16 Jan 2003
|22 Jul 2004
|Methods and systems for associating a plurality of different routes with the same destination and for selectively routing signaling messages to the destination over the different routes using message origination information associated with non-adjacent signaling nodes
|12 Sep 2002
|9 Dec 2004
|Manfred Angermayr
|Connection of link sets to switching centers
|29 Jul 2003
|7 Jul 2005
|Sprint Communications Company, L.P.
|Broadband telecommunications system
|29 Jul 2005
|11 Jan 2007
|Methods, systems, and computer program products for triggering SIP nodes to include SS7 routing information in response messages including information requested by SS7 nodes
|28 Jun 2006
|25 Jan 2007
|Methods, systems, and computer program products for using signaling system 7 (SS7) subsystem numbers to route messages to session initiation protocol (SIP) nodes
|U.S. Classification
|370/469, 379/230, 370/524
|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|23 Mar 2005
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 4
|23 Apr 2009
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 8
|11 Mar 2013
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 12


text: Unisex Child's Thai Fisherman Trousers by Marzipants £26$56.34€38.47$42.77 In stock free gift wrap £18.50$40.08€27.37$30.43 delivery to United States Receive this item 5-10 working days from dispatch International delivery available colourcolour (required)Blushed PinkSky BluePillar-Box RedIndigo Bluecolour (required)Blushed PinkSky BluePillar-Box RedIndigo Bluecolour (required)Blushed PinkSky BluePillar-Box RedIndigo Bluecolour (required)Blushed PinkSky BluePillar-Box RedIndigo Blue sizesize (required)3-6 years7-10 yearssize (required)3-6 years7-10 yearssize (required)3-6 years7-10 yearssize (required)3-6 years7-10 years quantity by Marzipants Location: London, GB read seller's profile see seller's complete range more items from this seller Organic Cotton, Fair Trade Maternity Trousers £36$78.01€53.27$59.22 Capri Style Trousers For Yoga Wear £30$65.01€44.39$49.35 Pure Cotton Trousers For Babies & Todlers £32$69.34€47.35$52.64 Vintage Kimono Oyster Card Holder £16.50$35.75€24.41$27.14 Men's Meditation, Gym And Lounge Trousers £36$78.01€53.27$59.22 Organic Cotton Women's Yoga Trousers £36$78.01€53.27$59.22 view all you may also like PRODUCT DETAILS CUSTOMER REVIEWS DELIVERY RETURNS free gift wrap eco-friendly ask seller a question save for later Fabulous, hand-made, fair-trade trousers for everyday use. Packaged in a matching bag, these adjustable, easy pull on trousers are seriously cool & comfy. Perfect for snuggling up at home, kids yoga classes, play time and fun days out. The added feature of a button and loop adjustable leg length and an elastic waist with belt makes these the perfect present for even the fastest growing little ones. You'll get much more wear out of them than you will with conventional trousers. Easy to wash, quick to dry, beautifully presented in a matching, Christmas bag and adorable to wear. All designed in London and hand made by a fair trade workshop in India. Available in: Blushed Pink, Sky Blue, Pillar-box Red or Indigo Blue. Each pair of trousers comes packaged in their own matching messenger bag which the kids love nearly as much as the trousers. made from: Marzipants use the finest, natural cotton for a soft, luxurious feel. Ethics: All our trousers are designed in London and hand-made by a family-run, fair trade workshop in India. We have been shortlisted as 'The One To Watch' in the Global Ethical Fashion Awards. Care Instructions: Marzipants can be machine washed at 30 degrees. dimensions: Our trousers come in 2 sizes: 3-6 years and 7-10 years. Simply adjust the leg length and waist to fit your child and let a little more out every time they grow. 3-6 years: With trousers rolled down they are 58 cm (23 inches) long. Rolled up to the top button they are 38 cm (15 inches). They can be rolled up further if you need. Max waist width is 60 cm (23.5 inches). 7-10 years: With trousers rolled down they are 77 cm (30.5 inches) long. Rolled up to the top button they are 61 cm (24 inches). They can be rolled up further if you need. Max waist width is 70 cm (27.5 inches). product code: 204749 1 customer review Tue 06 Aug 2013 Terrific. One happy little boy now who doesn't want to take them off. read about our product rating system ratings guide trusted independent customer feedbackforum excellent bad good poor This product is dispatched to you by Marzipants. MAINLAND UK order now and receive this item by price Standard Delivery Monday 12 October £2.75$5.95€4.06$4.52 Tracked Two Day Delivery Monday 12 October £6.70$14.51€9.91$11.02 Tracked Next Day Delivery Friday 9 October £7.70$16.68€11.39$12.66 Tracked Next Day 1pm Delivery Friday 9 October £9.70$21.01€14.35$15.95 Saturday Delivery Saturday 10 October £15.70$34.02€23.23$25.82 NON-MAINLAND UK estimated delivery price Highlands & Islands of Scotland 2-5 working daysfrom dispatch £2.75$5.95€4.06$4.52 Northern Ireland 2-5 working daysfrom dispatch £2.75$5.95€4.06$4.52 Other UK Islands 2-5 working daysfrom dispatch £2.75$5.95€4.06$4.52 INTERNATIONAL DELIVERY estimated delivery price Western Europe 2-5 working daysfrom dispatch £11.50$24.92€17.01$18.91 Rest of Europe 5-10 working daysfrom dispatch £11.50$24.92€17.01$18.91 USA & Canada 5-10 working daysfrom dispatch £18.50$40.08€27.37$30.43 Asia & Australasia 5-10 working daysfrom dispatch £19.50$42.25€28.85$32.08 Rest of the world 5-14 working daysfrom dispatch £19.50$42.25€28.85$32.08 You have 28 days, from receipt of cancellable goods, to notify the seller if you wish to cancel your order or exchange an item. Please note: goods that are personalised, bespoke or made-to-order to your specific requirements, perishable products and personal items sold with a hygiene seal (cosmetics, underwear) in instances where the seal is broken are non-refundable, unless faulty. Read more about our returns policy.Should you choose to return or exchange your order you will need to deliver the item(s) to the UK, where this seller is based. Marzipants's return policy

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Top Slideshows
The Question
Tue Feb 02 14:52:03 EST 2010
how do I cope? besides diabetes, i have high cholesterol, triglycerides (see below)
Asked By: fagala
Category: Coping And Emotional Issues
Background Info ShowHide
hypothyroid, plantar fasciitius and chronic kidney stones. I just had surgery for herina repair and need to have a bone spur on my hip (which makes exercising difficult -even walking) taken care of.
Diabetes Profile ShowHide
Expert Answers (1)
2010-02-28 21:40:43.0
Dear fagala, Thanks for writing into dLife for help with your stress. It is almost more usual for someone to have elevated lipids and cholesterol and diabetes than not to have those conditions. It appears you have had your diabetes for many years (1989) per your profile. It is not unusual for a person who has had type 2 diabetes this long to be on insulin and perhaps other oral diabetes medications. I hope you have attended diabetes education classes and have an established relationship with a diabetes educator. This person can help you problem solve and make sure your diabetes medicine regimen is as good as it can be. That is the first step to coping. Second, you need to identify what is making you feel you are not coping? Your question was rather vague. Sometimes people with chronic diseases such as diabetes, are depressed and need medication/counseling to help with this condition. In fact, depression is very common, but less often diagnosed and treated. Discuss your symptoms with your physician and get his/her evaluation. If you are not depressed, consider joining a diabetes support group. That might help you. It is also important for you to take good care of yourself. Get plenty of sleep and try to have regular mealtimes. Include exercise if you are able to exercise. Cultivate frendships, particularly among people who are supportive of you and are good listeners. They can help you deal with some of the issues that may be bothering you. At this point in time, it is unlikely that your diabetes is going to disappear. So, it is time to accept that and try to lead as normal of life as possible.
Answered By: Janice Fisher
Accreditations: RD, LD, PHD, CDE, BC-ADM
Sources ShowHide
(1 Answer)
Community Answers (0)
Most Recent Coping And Emotional Issues Questions:
*** All information contained on dLife.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our Expert Q&A is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.
ads keep dLife free
ads keep dLife free
Browse Questions by Category
- All Categories (6015)
- Blood Glucose Monitoring (722)
- Children's Issues (119)
- Coping And Emotional Issues (134)
- Dental Issues (0)
- Exercise (172)
- Food and Nutrition (941)
- Gestational Diabetes (41)
- Heart Disease and Diabetes (74)
- Insulin (433)
- Insurance and Financial Issues (53)
- Kidney Disease (96)
- Men's Issues (48)
- Neuropathy (177)
- Newly Diagnosed (219)
- Oral Medications (302)
- Other (594)
- Prediabetes (128)
- Pumping Issues (64)
- Sexual Issues (31)
- Type 1 (425)
- Type 2 (869)
- Vision (50)
- Weight Issues (203)
- Women's Issues (109)
dLife Weekly Poll
Have you ever cut back on diabetes medication because of financial problems?


text:
Rega Hotel Stuttgart
No prices found through our partners. Please contact the business directly or check some of our recommended alternatives.
How has this hotel rated in the past?
- Restaurant
- Business Services
Travelers also recommend:
TripAdvisor Reviews Rega Hotel Stuttgart
Travel Blogs from Stuttgart
Day 23 Stuttgart to Paris to St Malo
... We walked around the wall then back to the restaurants to have dinner. We chose a three course dinner for 24 Euro. About 9pm we went back to the wall, sat at a table, drank red merlot wine and watched the tide come in until midnight. All tables and chairs were removed and the water splashed over the wall where we had been sitting. Alex used his camera to take timed photography every 20 seconds. It turned it into a movie. We got back to our rooms about ...
Evan of Swabia
... through the center of Ulm with its massive spire. We continued on B roads passing through small farming communities and rolling forested hills and fields of crops (and very little other traffic). We stopped as Evan needed the toilet, 2 minutes later a motorbike came speeding up beeping his horn. An Italian Fernando Alonzo looking ran over to us and asked if we had a telephone. There had been a motorbike accident and they needed to call the ...
... br> So that is how the morning goes, very relaxing and before we know it is afternoon. We decide to walk to one of the taller buildings in Schorndorf were there is a bar at the top so that we can take some aerial photos of the village. On the way we will stop for a light lunch. The view from the bar is nice; it is on the 10 floor so you can see lots. We have a drink then leave as we are meeting people in a wine bar by the church for ...
March 5th to 10th, France, Luxembourg and Germany
... mutters under his breath, "Hopefully he'll offer us a lift back." As we say goodbye, the man does just that, asking, "Should I take you in my car?" Jonny tries his best not to get excited and splutter "YES PLEASE!" instead opting for a more polite and reserved, "Oh, are you going that way?" The kind stranger responds that it is no bother and we all chat amiably on the short journey (much longer walking in the dark) back to Ruby. Our last leg of the day is ...
Company's Comin'
... books pertinent to her family research, so it proved to be a successful day. I did a bit of research on a couple of my families as well, but only found one reference that may perhaps be of some relevance in the future. We then made our way to the Schlo�platz area to eat a light afternoon salad. We bought some pastries in the caf� to take home for later and did some grocery shopping for the week-end. Later that night we had a snack of some leftover soup and chicken with peppers.


text:
Massage helps relieve aches caused by old sports injuries or a habit of entering buildings by motorcycling through the window. Rev up the relaxation with this Groupon.
Choose Between Two Options
- $30 for one 60-minute massage (a $60 value)
- $79 for three 60-minute massages (a $180 value)
Select between therapeutic relaxation or deep-tissue massage techniques.
Surya Namaskar Yoga and Massage
Blending compassion, humor, and respect, the instructors at Surya Namaskar Yoga and Massage approach every class with the belief that yoga should be accessible to everyone. They guide students of all ages and skill levels—including athletes, seniors, and those with disabilities—along their own personal paths of growth, fulfillment, and well-being. Eschewing the popular notion that yoga is about exercise, they teach that yoga is about creating balance in the body through the development of flexibility and strength. This does not mean that they shun modernity, however. Between chants and inspirational readings, these spiritual instructors focus on healing their students' contemporary ailments, such as neck pain caused by computer usage and stress caused by worrying about the sun exploding. Their onsite massage therapists and healers further align mind and body, as well as foster spiritual awakening, with deep-tissue massages, holistic Pranic healing, and qi gong, a balance of Chinese medicine and martial arts.
90% of 92 customers recommend
"This is a hidden gem. Jeffrey is a exceptional massage therapist who was able to work out a knot in my shoulder that's been killing me for months. I've had 2 other..."
"This is a hidden gem. Jeffrey is a exceptional massage therapist who was able to work out a knot in my shoulder that's been killing me for months. I've had 2 other massage therapists work on it to no avail but Jeff did it! This is a clean, pleasant space and Jeffrey is a very nice gentleman."
"Jeffrey is wonderful. Very good massage and he is welcoming and made me feel very comfortable. I will go back!"
"Wonderful and peaceful experience."
St. Peterburg
4105 5th Ave. N
St. Peterburg, FL 33713
+17276230987Get Directions